Ruger M77 Tang Safety .338 Win. Mag. Bolt-Action Rifle, 24" Barrel, 1973 Production
This 1973 Ruger M77 tang-safety rifle pairs early-production features with the hard-hitting .338 Winchester Magnum chambering. Built in Southport, Connecticut, it uses Ruger’s investment-cast steel receiver with integral dovetail scope bases and retains the original two-position tang safety. A sporter-contour 24" barrel is now fitted with an aftermarket radial-ported screw-on muzzle brake to tame recoil. The combination of polished blue steel and American walnut makes this example a solid choice for hunters and collectors who appreciate classic 1970s Ruger craftsmanship.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
There are scattered scuffs, scratches, and dings in the metal and wood surfaces, but the rifle cycles, feeds, and fires properly.
What’s Included
- Ruger 1" steel split rings (pair)
- Unbranded radial-ported screw-on muzzle brake (installed)
Manufactured in 1973 with the “70-” serial prefix, this rifle represents Ruger’s first-generation M77 design before the later Mk II changes. The investment-cast receiver was pioneering for sporting rifles of the era, offering strength while keeping weight manageable.
Chambered in .338 Winchester Magnum, this M77 is less common than its .30-caliber counterparts. The internal three-round box magazine with a hinged floorplate ensures reliable feeding for big-game cartridges.
The sporter-contour 24" barrel balances well for field carry. Threads at the muzzle accept the included radial-ported brake, which helps reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise during heavy-recoiling shots.
Ruger machined integral dovetail bases into the receiver, and the factory 1" rings supplied here let you mount glass without additional hardware. No open sights are fitted, streamlining the rifle for scoped use.
The Monte Carlo American walnut stock features cut-bordered checkering, a ventilated recoil pad, and sling-swivel studs. A 13.25" length of pull accommodates most adult shooters while keeping the rifle fast to shoulder.